Sefar AGArchitectureHinterbissaustrasse 129410 HeidenSwitzerland

Office North America Sefar AG, North America Office Peter J. Katcha 446 2nd Street North Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 USA

Office Asia Chetan Doshi Sefar AG, Rep. Office 104 /105 Gayatri Complex Mittal Ind. Estate Compound Andheri Kurla Road, Andheri (E) Mumbai 400 059India

www.sefar.comwww.tenarafabrics.com

Sefar Architecture Experiences, ideas and new ways with architecture fabrics

Sefar Architecture

3 Architecture

EDITORIAL

Woven for architects

“You have the best fabrics for architecture and don’t evenknow it!” At the time, we could not have appreciated thesignificance of this remark made by one of our customersback in 2005. As a developer and producer of precisionfabrics for exclusively technical applications such as screenprinting, filtration and sieving processes, we were used todiscussing specifications such as mesh count, air passage,and filter performance with our clients down to the verylast detail. That architects would find our fabrics aestheticand at the same time highly functional went beyond – weadmit it – our powers of imagination back then.

Inspired by this growing interest, Sefar founded an inde -pendent business sector and from that time on developednew types of fabric for textile architecture. Our 180+ yearsof know-how in manufacturing technical fabrics was thecomprehensive basis on which we were quickly able tooffer a small range of architecture fabrics, unique in termsof their aesthetic and functional qualities.

We believe in fabrics. Then and now. It gives us greatpleasure to sense their increasing significance as the “fifthconstruction element.” We want to share this feeling withyou and present “Sefar Architecture” – a magazine givingfabrics an appropriate platform in the world of architecture.Overwhelmed by the interest which our fabrics havegenerated within a short time frame, it is now our desire toamaze you with their application possibilities. Discoverfabrics from a completely new angle. Read, see, andexperience for yourself that fabrics are not simply meshesbut also light sources, resonance regulators, and ambiencecreators.

If having read the contents you feel like visiting a world-leading weaving mill, you are welcome at our Heidenpremises in Switzerland any time. Set in the middle of theidyllic peace and quiet of an Alpine health resort, hundredsof machines constantly weave the materials of today whichbecome the unique projects of tomorrow. Who knows –maybe “you have the best project for architecture fabricsand don’t even know it”? Not yet anyway.

With this in mind: enjoy reading, looking, and beingamazed.

Ingo ThalhammerHead of Sefar Architecture

Credits

Sefar Architecture –Experiences, ideas and new wayswith architecture fabrics

Published by:Sefar AG Architecture Hinterbissaustrasse 129410 Heiden SwitzerlandPhone +41 (0)71 898 56 17www.sefar.com

Overall responsibility:Ingo ThalhammerHead of Business Segment Sefar Architecture

In cooperation with:Dr. Peter Meier, Sarah Vasbender

Editors:Hannes M. Sauler and RenateGratwohl, markkom.com

Authors: Hannes M. Sauler, Renate Gratwohl,Wolfgang Zdimal (markkom.com),Ingo Thalhammer, Sefar AG

Layout and design: buobundschiess.ch (Antonia Bannwart)

Translation from German: John Christian

Photos: Top City / pro.media, Sefar AG, buobundschiess.ch (Peter Koehl)

Printed by:www.walpen.ch

CONTENTS

Editorial .......................................................... 3

Credits . ........................................................... 3

Technical fabrics by SefarA new dimension.............................................. 6

Fluoropolymers in architectureHigh-quality materials .................................... 10

A game with lightFBC in Frankfurt ............................................. 12

Exciting interplay of light and shadeThe Soho Beach House, Miami ...................... 20

Open-air feeling under a retractable roofThe Kufstein Fortress Arena ........................... 22

Flying high in ZurichThe light ceiling at Zurich Airport ................... 28

Architectural fabrics are very much the trendInterview with Florin Baeriswyl ....................... 33

Light, airy, and a great atmosphereThe Swisscom Event Tent ............................... 34

Rain doesn’t stop play at the Centre Court,WimbledonSliding roof ensures uninterrupted action ....... 36

Architecture 4

6

12

22

5 Architecture

Shade in its most elegant formDresden Ammonhof ...................................... 40

The art of showing art in the right lightMuseum Folkwang ........................................ 42

SEFAR LIGHTFRAME® – Special features anddevelopment historyInterview with Switbert Greiner ..................... 48

250 sunshades for pilgrims The mosque at Medina al-Munawwarah......... 50

A shining example of a good conceptAchema 2009, Frankfurt ................................ 58

From threads to SEFAR® Architecture VISIONPrecision in production, finishing, and manufacturing ............................................... 60

Façade design in three dimensionsThe interplay of light and shadow .................. 62

Preview ......................................................... 66

Title pageDetail of theretractablemembrane roof atthe Kufstein FortressArena with SEFAR®

ArchitectureTENARA® fabric.

28

50

62

Architecture 6

Technical fabrics by Sefar

When it comes to producing techni-cal fabrics with exceptional physicalcharacteristics, Sefar is second tonone in its comprehensive know-how and far-reaching experience.For over 180 years, ongoing productdevelopment and the inclusion ofnew areas of application have beensignificant elements of the corporatephilosophy.

One of the fundamental principles ofthe corporation is to be continuouslystriving to find new solutions. Over 180years ago, the cornerstones of today’smultinational operation – with a totalof 2,100 employees in 24 countries –were laid on the production of silk bolt-ing cloth for use as flour sieves in cerealmilling. Sefar is the leading manufac-turer of technical precision fabricsbased on synthetic monofilaments.These fabrics enter into a multitude of

uses, reaching from screen printing todiverse filtration application in indus-tries such as medical, food, chemicalsand pharmaceuticals, clean and wastewater, automotive, aerospace, mobilephone, mining and refining, and manymore. High tech fabrics for architecturecomplement the range.

Newly developed “smart fabrics”In the fields of solar technology, electronics, and the glass industry, Sefar has produced a convincing rangeof “smart fabrics” – functional materi-als for the most diverse of applications.For example, they can combine theflex ibility of fabric with the propertiesof a printed circuit board, be tempera-ture regulated, have their own integrat-ed sensors and technical measurementcomponents, or function as electro-magnetic shields in electronic equip-ment. Most of these smart fabrics

are currently still in the developmentstage and on the basis of specific cus -tomer requirements are undergoing comprehensive testing and optimization.

Consistent ongoing developmentfor the field of architecture The development of special technicalfabrics has arisen from ongoing Sefarpractice. Our corporate philosophystates: “We focus all our activities onmarket needs,” and “We provide ourindustrial customers with the best solu-tions for their applications.” The com-bination of these two guidelines can beduly applied to the field of architecture:in response to customer feedbackthrough architecture partners (see the editorial of this publication by IngoThalhammer), the corporation has conducted research and manufacturedproducts related to areas of architec -tural application. The resulting business

A new dimension in architectonic design form.

7 Architecture

sector “SefarArchitecture” is responsiblefor the development, production, andsales of special technical architecturefabrics.

For designers with an individualsignatureIn the field of architecture, many yearsof know-how are also the foundationson which to develop materials withspecial properties for internal or exter-nal architectonic solutions. Uses forthese special fabrics include glass con-structions and facades, modular lightceilings, sun protection systems, illumi-nation and acoustic awnings, andmany other design applications. Mate-riality and the functional properties ofarchitecture fabrics provide architects,planners, and designers with opportu-nities to achieve projects bearing theirown individual signature. In imple-menting all this, Sefar works closely

with a network of experts includingspecialists in glass, facade, and metalconstruction. Current examples of suchprojects can be found here in this mag-azine.

High-precision,technical fabrics aremade specifically forthe individual field of application.

Architecture 8

9 Architecture

Monofilament yarns have aminimum diameter of 20 µm;the single filament of amultifilament yarn can be asfine as 1 µm. Depending onthe type of fabric, its widthcan be up to 6,000 warpyarns per meter.

Architecture 10

Fluoropolymers in

For this reason, high-tech fabrics are increasingly being used in modern ar-chitecture. In collaboration with light-ing and polymer experts, Sefar hasbeen successful in developing a newgeneration of fabrics made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Thestart ing material is pure fluoropolymer fabric, and these then receive special finishing and coating treatments to ac-quire their particular properties.

Robust polymersFluoropolymers are exceptional materi-als for fabrics, the most common beingPTFE – an unbranched, linear, part-crystalline polymer made up of fluorineand carbon atoms. This plastic is popu-larly known by its brand name Teflon®.Fluorine as a raw material is only foundnaturally in the form of compounds, es-pecially fluorite, also known as fluorspar (CaF2), a mineral which is mined principally in China but also inGermany. Fluorine gets its name fromthe Latin ‘fluor’ meaning “stream” because the most-commonly occurringfluoride mineral – fluorite – was alreadyused in early times as a flux to reducethe melting point of ore and make itflow more easily. Fluorite is treated withsulfuric acid to obtain hydrofluoric acidwhich in turn is the raw material usedin the productionof tetrafluoroethylene,a gaseous monomer. In the presence ofperoxide as an initiator, and under extreme pressure, the monomer polymerizes to form PTFE.

Under high temperature and pressurein extruders, the powder-like polymer isspun either into monofilament threadsor a film which can afterwards be cutand twisted into yarns. Spinning andweaving require specialist equipmentand great expertise on the part of theproducer to achieve homogenous andreproducible quality.

The chemical inertness and tough durability of fluoropolymers is due tothe fact that fluorine atoms, especiallyin comparison to very small hydrogenatoms or chlorine atoms, have a relatively

The reemergence of long-term values has increased the demand for high-quality materials which can permanentlyfulfill high expectations of aesthetics and functionality.

large spatial circumference which protects the atomic bonds between thecarbon atoms in the molecule. In effect,the fluorine atoms shield the carbonbonds. With PTFE, this shielding is at itsmost pronounced because here themaximum possible number of fluorineatoms is present. By contrast, the effectis somewhat reduced in PVDF owing to a smaller number of fluorine atomsin the molecule, but compared to common polymers which contain nofluorine at all, such as polyvinylchloride(PVC) or polyester fabrics, it is clearlysuperior.

PTFE molecule (C2F4) PVDF molecule (C2H2F2)

black = carbon atoms green = fluorine atoms blue = hydrogen atoms

The carbon bonds are completely protected by the fluorine atoms. This gives PTFE its unique properties.

The carbon bondsare relatively well shielded by fluorine atoms.This means PVDF has properties similar toPTFE.

–C – C–

– –

– –

– C – C–

– –

– –

11 Architecture

architecture

PropertiesFluoropolymers are long-lasting, highlytranslucent, very strong, easy to clean(think of a Teflon® frying pan!), totallyUV and environmentally resistant, aswell as being extremely aesthetic. In external locations, coated PTFE fabricsare increasingly popular owing to theirflex ibility in foldable constructions.

No fiber breakagePTFE-coated fiberglass products are extremely common in membrane struc -tures. With these fabrics, it is the PTFEcoating alone that enables load-bearingfabrics to be formed from breakableglass fibers. Along with pure fluoro -polymer fibers, the supporting fabric isalso made from pure fluoro polymer (e.g.PTFE or PVDF) and the coating from a100% fluoropolymer mix (made for ex-ample from THV, PTFE, and PVDF). Thishas the following advantages over con-ventional fiberglass products:

• High flexibility• High translucence• No fiber breakage

The elimination of fiber breakage aloneprevents point-source lessening of tensilestrength and ensures long-lasting op -erational reliability. And all this combinedwith virtually limitless folding/unfolding,such as when opening or closing a con-vertible construction.

The qualities and tensile strength of pure fluoropolymer fabrics today havevalues remarkably close to those of fiberglass fabrics.

Free from plasticizers Architecture fabrics made from purefluoropolymers are free from plasti -cizers, unlike other materials such asPVC. Fluoropolymers do not need anyadditives as they are naturally flexiblematerials; folding constructions madewith these remain operational overlong periods. In the event of damage tothe surface, there is no hardening or in-creasing brittleness.

Plasticizers, which are used in syntheticmaterials are based on phthalic acid esters and can be harmful to health.The research has not been completedyet, but some plasticizers are eventhought to be carcinogenic. Because oftheir high volatility these can becomeconcentrated in enclosed spaces andthen inhaled. Short-term exposure toskin can also be dangerous becausethey are able to penetrate the skin bar-rier. Many types of plasticizer are nowbanned by law, but it does not followthat those still permitted are thereforeharmless.

In addition to issues of health, thevolatility of plasticizers means that over time materials become brittle and theirfunctional tensile strength is reduced.One can speak of an accelerated agingprocess; manufacturing and assembly,the folding procedure, and other exter-nal mechanical or chemical impacts canalso damage the coating. If the under-lying supporting material contains plasticizers, these quickly escape intothe environment through the damagedarea. The result is localized hardening,

which in turn leads to a reduction inmaterial strength and thus to reducedoperational reliability and safety.

SummaryThe fluorine reclaimed from the mineralfluorite lends its unique properties to anumber of polymers such as PTFE orPVDF. Fluoropolymers can be spun intoyarn which is then woven into high-performance fabric. Spinning andweav ing require specialist know-howon the part of the supplier to make a homogenous and reproducible prod -uct. These fluoropolymer fabrics satisfya growing trend for high-grade con-struction materials. They are charac -te rized by a large number of benefits:

• High UV resistance• Maximum flexibility• Excellent light-technical properties• High tensile strength values• Odorless• Non-yellowing• Low dirt adhesion• Resistant to chemicals• Stable polymer chains / long-lasting• No toxic plasticizers• No hardening or brittle areas• Good fire safety values

Architecture 12

FBC FRANKFURT

13 Architecture

Sefar Architecture Fabrics light up the forecourt at FBC in Frankfurt.

From the start

a gamewith light

Architecture 14

15 Architecture

Standing 142 meters above the ground, it is impossible to miss FBC – the Frankfurt Büro Center. With its newforecourt canopy which leads directly into the foyer, FBCis now a truly architectonic eye-catcher. The modularLightframe light ceiling, both outside and inside, was constructed using SEFAR® Architecture IL-80-OP Fabric.

FBC FRANKFURT

How can you give an emotional kick toa well-known and immovable buildingwhich has long been part of the cityskyline? To achieve this task, local archi-tects Just / Burgeff drew on innovativematerials and thus new design possibil-ities. In SEFAR® Architecture IL-80-OP,they found a suitable architecture fab -ric which more than satisfied the re-quirements of both the external and in-ternal redesign.

Architecture fabric connectsToday the horizontallyoriented light canopy is synonymous with the promi-nent FBC building. The modular Light-frame construction, specially developed

for Sefar, with its individual (but ar -ranged as a single unit) membrane ele-ments spans wide sections of the en-trance area and continues into the foyeras a light ceiling. This has the effect ofconnecting two different spaces, namelythe busy Mainzer Landstrasse outsideand the more peaceful Café Pavil ionwithin.

Games with lightThe construction itself forms a link be-tween natural daylight and preciselycontrolled artificial lighting. In the out-side area of the forecourt, the ever-changing light intensity (dependent oncloud cover and the movement of the

FBC FRANKFURTFBC

Mainzer LandstrasseFrankfurt, Germany ArchitectJust / Burgeff, Architects, Frankfurt, Germanywww.just.burgeff.de EngineeringArtEngineering GmbH, Dr. Ing. S. Greiner, Stuttgart, Germany www.greiner-engineering.comManufacturing/ImplementationSchmid GmbH, Simmerberg, Germanywww.schmidgmbh.de FabricSEFAR® Architecture IL-80-OP

Architecture 16

17 Architecture

Architecture 18

19 Architecture

FBC FRANKFURT

sun across the sky) interplays with thediffusing properties of the fabric. At thesame time, shadows are cast on the un-derside of the forecourt canopy. As dark -ness falls, the architecture fabric is illu-minated from within, becoming anintegral part of the nighttime scene.

One material, many possibilitiesSEFAR® Architecture IL-80-OP satisfiesall the requirements of both externaland internal sections. These include re-sistance to weather-related influences,easy cleaning of the outer surfaces aswell as its noise absorption propertiesin the foyer area. One material for many different situations – scoring highly

in the planning stages thanks to its in-telligent functional and application pos-sibilities.

SEFAR® Architecture IL-80-OP

Fabric material PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) Material coating100% fluoropolymer WeavePlain 1/1 Area density (g/m2) 240 Highest tensile strengthwarp/weft (N/5 cm)1,050/1,050 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Highest tensile elongationstrength warp/weft (%)40/25 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Tear force warp/weft (N)35/50 as per DIN 53859-5 Water column (mm)> 500

Architecture 20

SOHO BEACH HOUSE MIAMI

Exciting interplay of light and shade

The redesign and expansion of the ex-clusive Soho Beach House, a privateclub with a worldwide following, wasan architectonic balance between con-temporary and traditional styles. Inview of its proximity to the historic Sovereign Hotel, no compromises weregoing to be made in the quality of thematerials chosen since safety regula -tions in this hurricane-risk area are verystrict. SEFAR® Architecture TENARA®Fabric proved to be the ideal choice forthe implementation of two retractablesun awnings covering the inner court -yard of the building.

At the famous Soho Beach House inMiami, it was important to combinethe highest standards of aesthetics withany functional requirements. The pro-posed sun awnings needed to provideshade for guests yet allow sufficientlight to penetrate the inner courtyard.The reason for this: Silver Buttonwoodtrees require a lot of light in order togrow. The demand for a flexible, re-tractable sun roof arose from the needfor the plants to be watered with natu-ral rainfall and the value placed byguests on spatial “openness” afterdark or when the sun is low in the sky.

Optimum 40% light transmissionThe decision to employ SEFAR® Archi-tecture TENARA® Fabric was reachedrelatively quickly. The reason: the mate-rial is fire resistant, extremely durable,can be retracted many times without visible signs of wear and tear, and at40% light transmission offers the opti-mum degree of light/shade intensity for

both trees and guests. Owing to thehigh risk of hurricanes in Miami, the fabric has to possess the highest possi-ble tensioning force. SEFAR® Architec-ture TENARA® Fabric scores highly herewith a figure of 900 kg per linear me-ter. No further maintenance is needed,but it is easy to clean if necessary.

Opening and closing with addedvalueThe two awnings – the first on levelone above Cecconi’s Garden Restau-rant, the other on level two over theClub Bar – are controlled by a highlymodern weather program from Uni-Systems. In addition to manual openingand closing, the awnings automaticallyretract in the event of unfavorable weather conditions. When closed, thefolding roof measures only 122 cm in

width and blends in harmoniously withthe general architectonic setting.What’s more, in avoiding having to in-stall an unattractive and expensivesprinkler system in the garden, thetrees are watered naturally. When rainfalls, the sun awning is automaticallyretracted – when no guests are sittingin the garden – and water can seep intothe ground unhindered.

Further potential in the futurePeter Katcha, Sefar Director of NorthAmerican Sales comments: “I am veryhappy that with SEFAR® ArchitectureTENARA® Fabric we were able to real -ize this demanding and prestigiousproj ect. At the same time, I am veryproud of the fact that there was no vi-able alternative to this material. With alight transmission of 40%, we can offeraround double the normal industrystandard of just 20%. The exclusive So-ho Beach House is exactly the right typeof location to prove the unique quali-ties of our architectural fabrics. To -gether with our partner Uni-Systems,we have shown what is technologicallypossible – and what we will be able tosupply in the future.”

Textile awning for restaurant and bar at the exclusive Soho Beach House, Miami.

Even when closed,the retractable roofblends harmoniouslyinto the overallarchitectonic picture.

21 Architecture

Soho Beach HouseMiami FL, USA, www.sohobeachhouse.com

ArchitectShulman + Associates Miami FL, USA www.shulman-design.comEngineering, Manufacturing/Implementation, SalesUni-Systems LLC, Minneapolis,USA, www.uni-systems.com General ContractorMoss Construction ManagementFort Lauderdale FL, USAwww.mosscm.comFabricSEFAR® Architecture TENARA®

4T40HF

SEFAR® Architecture TENARA®

Fabric 4T40HF

Fabric materialFluoropolymer-coated fabricmade from PTFE fibersArea density1,080 g/m2

Thickness0.55 mmWidth1.575 mHighest tensile strength warp4,000N/5 cm (ASTM D4851)Highest tensile strength weft4,000N/5 cmTrapezoidal tear strengthwarp798 N (ASTM D4851)Trapezoidal tear strength weft752 NLight transmission38% (ASTM E903, average 450–650 nm)Fire resistanceEN 13501 B-s1, d0, ASTM E84 – Class A, NFPA 701 – Small Scale-Pass

Architecture 22

23 Architecture

FORTRESS ARENA KUFSTEIN

Open-air feeling under aretractableroof.

The Kufstein Fortress Arena offers both.

Top City / pro.media

Architecture 24

Events scheduled to take place in theopen air always carry a certain elementof risk – not least in the Austrian Alps.Cancellations are not only costly butthey upset the very guests which organ-izers are trying to attract as regular visi-tors to the event venue. A roof cov eringfor this historic fortress arena was theonly solution. The seemingly contradic-tory project requirement was obvious:the roof should not impact negativelyon the open-air feel of the arena.

Kugel + Rein Architects and Engineers,Stuttgart, found the solution in SefarAG, Heiden, Switzerland.

Design, acoustics, and lightThe Arena roof was conceptualized as acircular “flower” in shape, opening fromthe center and lying above the eventarea. A total of over 2,000 m2 of translu-cent white membranes were used in itsconstruction, which in addition to thenecessary weather protec tion offer a

host of additional technical benefits. SEFAR® Architecture TENARA® Fabricalso scores well as a highly functionalacoustic ceiling, which is an extremelyimportant factor especially when stagingconcerts. The fabric ensures a harmo-nious balance between the orchestraand the open air. On top of all this, theroof can also be used as an additionalprojection surface for light effects whoseexclusivity contrib utes to a spectacularArena experience.

FORTRESS ARENA KUFSTEIN

In recent years, the Kufstein Fortress Arena has established itself as a popularhotspot for events in the Tirol region of Austria. Here in the immediate vicinityof the impressive fortifications, concerts, exhibitions and events of all kinds takeplace. Owing to the changeable nature of the weather in the Austrian Alps, aroof system was needed which did not reduce the open-air feel of the arena.The solution: SEFAR® Architecture TENARA® Fabric.

Top City / pro.media

25 Architecture

Architecture 26

27 Architecture

Fifty-two meters in diameterThe construction of the membrane roofat the Kufstein Fortress Arena has made a lot of impact architectonically.The supporting framework resembles ahorizontal wire wheel about 52 metersin diameter, constructed from fifteen tri-angular segments. The wire wheel is anefficient, self-contained, highly pre-stressed supporting system which inpractice is remarkably quick to put intooperation. In just four minutes, the SEFAR® Architecture TENARA® Fabric

roof can be electrically opened or closed,and in so doing, apart from the impactof the wind, only vertical force is directedonto its foundations.

Open air, under coverWeather protection, acoustic ceiling andprojection surface – in addition to allthis, thanks to its 40% light transmissionproperties and all-round open structure,SEFAR® Architecture TENARA® Fabricmanages to preserve that authenticopen-air feeling. Exceptionally strong

sunlight, rainfall, or unexpected changesin the weather are no longer a reasonto delay or cancel long-planned events.At the same time, the textile materialcompletely satisfies the high demandsof monumental preservation and blendseasily into the his toric ensemble, withaesthetic modernity and due sensitivity.

Kufstein Fortress Arena,Austria

Architect / EngineeringKugel + Rein Architects and Engineers, Stuttgart, Germany www.kugel-rein.eu Manufacturing/ImplementationHightex GmbH, Rimsting, Germany www.hightexworld.com FabricSEFAR® Architecture TENARA®

SEFAR® Architecture TENARA®

Fabric 4T40HF

Fabric materialFluoropolymer-coated fabricmade from PTFE fibersArea density1,080 g/m2

Thickness0.55 mmWidth1.575 mHighest tensile strength warp4,000N/5 cm (ASTM D4851)Highest tensile strength weft4,000N/5 cmTrapezoidal tear strengthwarp798 N (ASTM D4851)Trapezoidal tear strength weft752 NLight transmission38% (ASTM E903, average 450–650 nm)Fire resistanceEN 13501 B-s1, d0, ASTM E84 – Class A, NFPA 701 – Small Scale-Pass

FORTRESS ARENA KUFSTEIN

AIRPORT ZURICH

Architecture 28

Flying high in ZurichA light ceiling with additional functions opens up the skies.

29 Architecture

AIRPORT ZURICH

Nowhere does one feel closer to theskies than at an airport. This is especial-ly true at Zurich Airport, where passen-gers in the newly refurbished passageto Terminal 1 already get a sense of taking off. This effect is made possiblethrough the selective use of SEFAR®Architecture IA-80-CL Fabric. Duringthe course of his research, architectFlorin Baeriswyl from dai AG in Zurichbecame aware of the many differenttypes of architecture fabrics producedby Sefar. After initial discussions andmore detailed planning, it became clearthat this material would be ideal forspatial design, illumination, andacoustic insula tion. Perfect, in fact, for

large and small projects in Zurich andthe whole world.

Open to something newFlorin Baeriswyl and his team at dai have symbolically opened the airport tothe skies. Adhering to the stringentsafety regulations for public places, thelight ceiling was created in a patented,detailed frame design. Architect FlorinBaeriswyl explains: “For us it was important that in spite of its enormoussurface area, the entire constructionshould be airy and slightly transparent.Only in this way was it possible to create the sensation of ‘open sky’ in theinterior of an airport building.”

Anyone flying out of Switzerland’s largest airport in Zurichwill be taking to the skies before they even leave theground – optically at least. For the light ceiling incorpo -rating SEFAR® Architecture IA-80-CL Fabric ensures a trulyunique sense of space through the transmission of a sophis-ticated, controlled light effect coupled with the targetedapplication of acoustic absorption.

Zurich Airport

Terminal 1 / Car Park Lift 1ArchitectFlorin Baeriswyl, dai AG, Zurich,Switzerland, www.dai.ch EngineeringArtEngineering GmbHDr. Ing. S. GreinerStuttgart, Germany www.greiner-engineering.com FabricSEFAR® Architecture IA-80-CL

Architecture 30

SEFAR LIGHTFRAME®:Easy to assemble and maintain thanksto its lightweight and intelligentsupporting structure.

31 Architecture

Light transmission (%)> 80 as per ASTM D 1003 Reflectance (%) 19 Absorption (%) 1

SEFAR® Architecture A-80-CL

Fabric materialPVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride),calendared, open-poredFabric width (cm)146, 270, 340Weave Twill 1/3Area density (g/m2) 440Highest tensile strengthwarp/weft (N/ 5cm) 1,800/1,000 as per EN ISO 13934-1Highest tensile elongationstrength warp/weft (%) 35/27 as per EN ISO 13934-1Tear force warp/weft (N)40/80 as per DIN 53859-5Fire resistanceB1 as per DIN 4102; B-s1, d0 asper DIN EN 13501-1

Architecture 32

AIRPORT ZURICH

Light and soundThe finished result: by means of a cleverinterplay with the lighting technologybehind it, the fabric ceiling imparts apleasant feeling of familiarity and calm-ness – ideal for nervous flyers. Irregularchanges between cool and warm lightgenerate that “light feeling.“ At the same time, this indoor sky suppressesthe constant sound of multiple foot-steps, rolling suitcases, and all thatmakes up a busy international airport.With its special acoustic properties, SEFAR® Architecture IA-80-CL Fabric en-sures a highly efficient reduction in back-ground noise.

Intelligent applications“A fabric that transmits light like theclouds and swallows sound like the sky;in Sefar we have found a partner whoconstantly surprises us with functionalmaterials, never previously thought pos-sible,” enthuses Florin Baeriswyl. Today,the light ceiling at Zurich Airport is aprototype and successful working ex-ample of the intelligent application ofarchitecture fabrics in public places –not least because of close collaborationbetween the Sefar development sec tion,the planning architects, and the manu-facturers.

Behind the scenes ofthe light ceiling:Lights, cabling, andbuilding servicestechnology – unseenby the public atZurich Airport.

INTERVIEW

The story of the development of SefarArchitecture Fabrics is inseparably linkedto the Swiss architect Florin Baeriswyl.Following an architecturally atypical contract, an exciting collaboration ofcreative minds has evolved. In a recentinterview, Florin Baeriswyl explainedhow, thanks to Sefar, he is constantlyable to surprise his clients with some-thing new.

You are one of the first architects tohave used Sefar Architecture Fabrics.How did you come across these special materials in the first place?Florin Baeriswyl: Actually we foundone another. Sefar commissioned meand my dai office to advise the newlyestablished architecture sector of the organization on their market branding.The aim was to position this sector inthe market place as a stand-alone division. In addition to our consultativerole (in the interdisciplinary activities ofdai), the fabric naturally excited me asan architect.

How did the further collaborationwhich followed develop from that?Where have you provided input? In which areas have you been inspired by existing architecture fab-ric ranges?Florin Baeriswyl: This project gave usa deep insight into the diversity of Sefarproducts. In this way, we have got toknow and value the creative potentialand versatility of this partner. On thisbasis, it was possible to develop newareas of application in architecture anddesign situations together, for examplein the form of a light ceiling at Zurichairport. But also in the course of the de-velopment of the special illumination“natural sky,” which controls the naturalinterplay with light and at the same timeprovides an echoabsorption function.

What application possibilities do architecture fabrics open up?Florin Baeriswyl: The possibilities areas good as limitless. I find architecturefabrics interesting because – dependingon the concrete product – they combineso many different properties. For exam-ple, they are reverberation absorbent,nonflammable, UV resistant and thussuitable for outdoor applications, andeasy to keep clean. Even oil, ketchup,or coffee leaves no trace behind.

Apart from that, the fabric can beformed, tensioned, and hung in almostany way – and it has an exceptionally

low intrinsic weight. No other rigid architectural material can offer that.

How do your clients react when yousuggest the application of fabrics inspatial planning and design? Is theirfirst reaction more one of interestor of skepticism?Florin Baeriswyl: Initially it is definitelyone of skepticism, and that is under-standable since this versatile material isnot yet widely known. But as soon as Ishow them product samples, tell themabout its many additional benefits andfunctions, and provide testimonies ofworking examples, this turns into enthusiasm. Suddenly most clients wantto belong to the architectonic trendset-ters. That’s what we want!

Are we really witnessing the begin-ning of a new trend? In which areascan architecture fabrics still make advances?Florin Baeriswyl: The best thing aboutthis development is that we are still reallyonly at the beginning. Theoretically –and of course also practically – there arehardly any limits to the application ofSEFAR® Architecture Fabrics. Thanks toexceptional physical properties such asthe UV resistance already mentioned,the fabrics can be used anywhere in theworld. With unbelievable additionalfunctions such as electrical conductivity,these fabrics pave the way for previouslyundreamt-of possibilities. I am alreadyexcited about what can still be achievedwith it. And to return to the originalquestion – yes, architecture fabrics arevery much the trend. And Sefar is thetrendsetter.

“Architectural fabrics are very much thetrend. And Sefar is the trendsetter.”Architect Florin Baeriswyl from dai AG in Zurich, on new discoveries, trends, and previously undreamt-of possibilities.

33 Architecture

While revising the corporate design ofSwisscom, it was also decided to reor-ganize how the organization wouldpresent itself to customers at publicevents. Instead of inflexible, bulky, andheavy equipment, a concept was creat-ed based on an inflatable event tentwhich can be assembled and disman-tled in a short time and with minimaleffort, irrespective of its location. Sincethe tent had to conform to demandingaesthetic and functional restraints, onlyspecial materials could be consideredfor the task.

Maximum flexibility, minimum effort– the architecture fabric SEFAR®Architecture IL-90-CL makes theseseemingly conflicting requirementspossible in a perfect way. Manu-facturer Luft & Laune GmbH has developed a unique event tent forSwisscom, which is sure to create asensation.

Light,

Architecture 34

EVENT TENT SWISSCOM

Demands met optimallyThe final choice was the architecturefabric SEFAR® Architecture IL-90-CL,which with its high light transmission,UV resistance, and relatively low areadensity was more than able to satisfythe given requirements. Once construct-ed, the appearance of the architecturefabric even ensures a special feeling ofspace inside the tent. Unwanted noiseis absorbed while the character of thetextile imparts a pleasant, warm ambi-ence.

Targeted, controlled lighting effectsBack to the lighting characteristics ofSEFAR® Architecture IL-90-CL: the highlytranslucent architecture fabric surprisesyou from inside and outside with itsconstantly changing moiré effect. LEDlight switchers installed in special socketsbeneath the tent illuminate its bodyfrom the inside out with different visualvariations. Thanks to the exceptionallight-technical properties of the material,colors can be very precisely controlled,directed, and mixed. With the right ideaand the optimum SEFAR® ArchitectureFabric, even the most challenging ofprojects can be easily and airily imple-mented.

Swisscom Event Tent, Zurich

ArchitectDesignculture AG Zurich, Switzerland, www.designculture.ch Engineering,Manufacturing/PrintingLuft & Laune GmbH, Zurich, Switzerland, www.luftundlaune.ch FabricSEFAR® Architecture IL-90-CL

SEFAR® Architecture IL-90-CL

Fabric materialPVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride)Material coating 100% fluoropolymerMaterial width (cm) 160Highest tensile strengthwarp/weft (N/5 cm)1,050/1,050 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Highest tensile elongationstrength warp/weft (%)40/25 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Fire resistanceB1 as per DIN 4102; B-s1, d0 asper DIN EN 13501-1 Light transmission (%)≥ 90 as per ASTM D 1003 Reflectance (%) 9Absorption (%) 1

The Swisscom EventTent brings it all together!

and a great atmosphere

35 Architecture

Architecture 36

Rain doesn’t stop play at the CENTRE COURT WIMBLEDON

37 Architecture

Centre Court, WimbledonA sliding roof made of 5200 m2 SEFAR® Architecture TENARA® Fabric ensures uninterrupted action.

Architecture 38

Tournament matches held on the CentreCourt at the world-famous All EnglandLawn Tennis & Croquet Club in Wim-bledon rank among the highlights ofthe tennis calendar. But even when theworld’s best players measure up, thereis never any guarantee concerning theweather. For many years, matches weresuspended whenever rain fell, with tour-nament delays – and additional costs –an all too frequent occurrence. Today,both players and spectators can enjoyuninterrupted tennis even when it’s rain-ing in South London.

The objectives for covering the CentreCourt were explicit: to preserve the his-torical ambience of the sporting arenadating back to 1922, to provide shelterfrom unfavorable weather conditions,to permit high light transmission withoutcreating bright or dark spots, and tomaintain an open-air feel. SEFAR® Ar-chitecture TENARA® Fabric was morethan able to fulfill all these requirementsand continues to deliver in terms of itspractical suitability. When retracted, theroof is barely visible, but once open itprovides reliable protection for the grasscourt and 1,200 spectator seats fromwind and rain.

Uniform translucenceTo guarantee uniform light transmission,two different fabrics were employed:SEFAR® Architecture TENARA® Fabric4T20HF with 20%, and 4T40HF with40% light transmission. These high-frequency welded fabrics are fastenedto ten steel girders which can be movedusing wheels running on rails. In lessthan ten minutes, approximately 5,200m2 of fabric with a span of 77 meterscan be extended or retracted at a heightof 16 meters above the famous Wim-bledon grass.

CENTRE COURT WIMBLEDON

39 Architecture

Exceptional propertiesThis line of PTFE fabrics possesses veryspecial properties for this visually sensa-tional project: absolute water tightnessand good mechanical resilience, butabove all excellent light transmission,guaranteed tear resistance, and resistanceto mold growth – an important factorin the application of retractable weatherprotection systems. As SEFAR® Archi-tecture TENARA® Fabric does not creaseand virtually cleans its own dirt-repellant fluoropolymer surface in the rain, theCentre Court roof will remain flawlessin appearance for many years to come.

Reference project with a worldwide profileThe retracting roof at Wimbledon is oneof the reference projects using SEFAR®Architecture TENARA® Fabric that isbeamed to the world by TV transmissionseach and every year. The special materialproperties and high-precision constructionof the two moveable roof segments –made from four and five fabric elementsrespectively – ensure that matches playedon the “hollowed turf” of the CentreCourt are not rained off in the future.From now on, players and spectatorsalike can concentrate on the ball, and noton the clouds forming in the sky above.

Retractable roof at CentreCourt, Wimbledon, London,England

ArchitectGlobal Design Firm PopulousLondon, England www.populous.com EngineeringTensys Ltd., Bath, UK General contractorGalliford Try plc, Englandwww.gallifordtry.co.uk ManufacturerHightex, Rimsting, Germany FabricSEFAR® Architecture TENARA®

4T20HF and 4T40HF

SEFAR® Architecture TENARA®

Fabric 4T20HF and 4T40HF

Fabric materialFluoropolymer-coated fabricmade from PTFE-fibers Area density1,080 g/m2

Thickness 0.55 mmWidth 1.575 m Highest tensile strengthWarp 4,000 N/5 cmWeft 4,000 N/5 cm Light transmission38% (4T40HF), 19% (4T20HF)

Wimbledon from anunusual perspective.The retractable roofprotects the grasscourt and 1,200spectator seatingarea from wind andweather.

Architecture 40

Viewed from above, the shape of thismodern office building resembles a dropof water. In actual fact, the Dresden Am-monhof exhibits an organic form inmany respects, and was designed in itsentirety to be very economical and energy-efficient. This “shell and core“project (the office buildings form a ringaround an internal atrium) focuses onthe natural retention of warmth and en-ergy. The inner courtyard functions as apassive retainer of warmth: its volumehas the same effect in summer and inwinter. But what does this mean for theactive utilization of the courtyard area?When the midday sun shines, the atriumheats up very quickly, and for staff work-ing here this popular place to socializeand communicate rapidly loses its ap-peal. The solution: a specially designedarchitectural canopy made from SEFAR®Architecture EL-35-T1 (100% fluoropoly-mer-coated PTFE fabric). With a totalsurface area of 450 m2, this large

awning is tensioned beneath glass elements and side wall attachments. Inthis way, it is both stable and secure aswell as ensuring a very spacious and airy ambience.

With SEFAR® Architecture EL-35-T1, anarchitecture fabric is used which – inevery sense of the word – is well worthseeing. The fluoropolymer fabric, with≥ 35% light transmission, an extremelyhigh proportion of diffuse light, and verylow discoloration, satisfies all the de-mands of this sweeping sunshade.Whether uncoated or water-proofed,with integrated UV protection or with-out: because of its low intrinsic weightcombined with high resistance to tear-ing, this material is the perfect solutionfor challenging applications.

Another benefit of this special architec-tural canopy is one which cannot beseen, but it can be heard. In addition to

its function as a sunshade and temper-ature regulator, the suspended 450 m2

ceiling also provides an acoustic damp-ening effect. Footsteps, conversations,and any other noise made in the all-round glazed atrium is optimally ab-sorbed – the fabric therefore makes apositive contribution to the practical utility of the whole area. Thanks to SEFAR® Architecture EL-35-T1, there really is no dark side for the occupantsof the Dresden Ammonhof.

Shade in its most elegant formThe 450 m2 architectural canopy at Dresden Ammonhof.

SEFAR® Architecture EL-35-T1

Fabric materialPTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) Material coating100% fluoropolymer Area density (g/m2)320 Highest tensile strengthwarp/weft (N/5cm)2,000/2,050 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Highest tensile elongationstrength warp/weft (%)11/10 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Tear force warp/weft (N)not tearable according to ISO13937-2 Fire resistanceB1 as per DIN 4102; B-s1, d0 asper DIN EN 13501-1 Light transmission (%)> 35 as per ASTM D 1003 Reflectance (%) 64 Absorption (%) < 1

41 Architecture

Ammonhof Dresden, Germany

Engineeringaeronautec GmbH, Seeon,Germany, www.aeronautec.de Manufacturing/Implementation and Salesaeronautec GmbH FabricSEFAR® Architecture EL-35-T1

Architecture 42

The art ofshowing art in the rightlight

The Sefar light ceiling at the Museum Folkwang combines aesthetics and functionality.

43 Architecture

Architecture 44

The SEFAR LIGHT FRAME®

enable quick and easyaccess to lighting andbuilding technology.

Natural light is omnipresent in the newmuseum building designed by DavidChipperfield. The courtyard surround-ings are filled with as much of it as pos-sible and the exhibition rooms were sodesigned as to make full use of the nat-ural light spectrum when presentingthe art. Accordingly, the works enter into a special dialogue with ever-changing light situation over the courseof the day. The interior lighting ambi-

ence inside the museum is controlledby means of side windows and lightceilings. For architectural reasons, itwas decided to use a Lightframe con-cept – an optimal combination of SE-FAR® Architecture IA-95-CL Fabric andintelligent ceiling modules, resulting inconvincing added value.

Large dimensions – intelligentsolutionsThe Lightframe concept is based on amodular system. So as not to changethe characteristics of the room, boththe light metal frames with their ten-sioning devices and the edges of thefabric are invisible. Supports, lightingunits, and cables are housed in a spe-cial track. When connecting multipleelements as is the case in the Museum

45 Architecture

Architecture 46

Folkwang Museum

Essen, Germany www.museum-folkwang.deRealizationNeubau Museum Folkwang EssenGmbH, an undertaking of theWolff GroupBuilding ownerNeubau Museum Folkwang EssenGmbHArchitectDavid Chipperfield Architects London/Berlin www.davidchipperfield.co.uk Implementation plannerPLAN FORWARD GmbHEngineering, Manufacturing/ImplementationSchmid GmbH Weiler-Simmerberg, Germanywww.schmidgmbh.de FabricSEFAR® Architecture IA-95-CL Lightframe module3,200 ¥ 1,520 mm

SEFAR® Architecture IL-95-CL

Fabric materialPVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride),perforatedMaterial coating100% fluoropolymerFabric width (cm) 160Highest tensile strengthwarp/weft (N/5 cm)800/800 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Highest tensile elongationstrength warp/weft (%)35/20 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Fire resistanceB1 as per DIN 4102; B-s1, d0 asper DIN EN 13501-1 Light transmission (%)≥ 95 as per ASTM D 1003 Reflectance (%) 4 Absorption (%) 1

Folkwang, locking screws ensure thenecessary tensioning to cope with thelarge surface area. A total of 514“floating” Lightframe modules wereused to cover the 1400 m2 light ceilingof the column-free hall for temporaryexhibitions.

Lightframes as basic elementsAt the same time, the Lightframe lightceiling meets all the exhibition-specificrequirements. The modular arrangementof the ceiling grid makes it possible toinclude running rails for suspendingwall-separating elements. In this way,the light ceiling also serves as a dividerfor the changeable room structure.What’s more, in addition to its light-technical properties with transmission

47 Architecture

rates over 95%, SEFAR® Architecture IA-95-CL Fabric is also known for itsnoise absorption qualities – a basic requirement when planning reduced exhibition space without its own“breaks” to dampen reverberation.Above all, the nature of the textile im-parts an unseen yet noticeably pleasantatmosphere to the room within the cleardesign form of the entire building.

Well presentedIn collaboration with Sefar manufactur-ing partner Firma Schmid GmbH inWeiler-Simmerberg, Germany, art is suc-cessfully kept as the center of attention.Although the dimensions and the clearstructure of the light ceiling actually playan important role in the overall museumvisit experience, the architectonic refine-ments are kept discreetly in the back-ground. The Lightframe concept and

SEFAR® Architecture IA-95-CL Fabric seethemselves as a means to an end – andin these selected frames are visually wellpresented.

The welt channels areeasily recognizable in thisillustration.

Architecture 48

Mr. Greiner, you run an internationalengineering practice and have developed the light ceiling systemSEFAR LIGHTFRAME® in close collab-oration with Sefar AG in Heiden.What were your goals during devel-opment?Switbert Greiner: I got to know thismarvellous light-technical fabric by SefarAG about 7 years ago, and began todevelop architectural solutions for cov-ering surfaces. On the one hand, therewas the fabric and on the other therewere architects who recognized the potential for these materials, were excited about their particular properties,and inspired to create a host of applica-tions for it. What was unclear was howthe fabric could be fitted and tensionedso that the mechanical parts of the con-struction functioned properly, were easyto install, and would not be too visible.

Why use technical fabric in architec-ture?Switbert Greiner: I think there aremany reasons in this case. Architects arealways looking for unprecedented solu-tions – design and a passion for innova-tion are very close to one another. Thereare also purely technical reasons. It is almost impossible otherwise to constructlarge backlit surfaces which radiate suchlightness, have so few seams and visibleconstruction elements, and have such apleasant feel to them. The smoothhaptic of Sefar fabric is especially no-ticeable – but perhaps the more so sub-consciously.

And here you have – as SEFARLIGHTFRAME® demonstrates – a fieldof activity for constructive thinking,inventive engineers. How long didit take from conceptual formulationto a marketable product? Switbert Greiner: It was a very longjourney. I studied already establishedproducts and solutions but was nothappy with any of them. Time and againI said to myself it had to be more elegantand maybe even lighter. I was lookingfor answers to such questions as how itcould be produced and fitted, how themembrane could be secured, how itcould be tensioned, and how the edgeprofile could be made as filigree as pos-sible.

I discovered solutions, began to makedesigns, and then create the first proto-types together with Dr. Gutmann fromPollux. At the same time, I made surewe had trademark rights. Luckily it transpired that we had the opportunityto apply the system to an attractive project right away, namely the foyer roofof the FBC Tower in Frankfurt (Just /Burgeff Architects, Frankfurt).

What distinguishes this solution ofyours? What is so special about it?Switbert Greiner: Other solutions se-cure the membrane to a frame madefrom rigid profiles. Such frames havebulky crosssections determined by thesystem. With an opaque fabric, this doesnot really matter very much – exceptthat the frame material can be quitecostly. But with light-technical fabricsyou can see the profile when it is fixedbehind the fabric membrane. Wewanted to make sure that the profilewas completely invisible or at least barelyvisible.

There is not just the one ingenious ideawhich has made it possible to hide thetensioning and support structure. Firstcame the basic idea: let’s do away withthe rigidity of the supporting profile.That way we can make it very thin.

SEFAR LIGHTFRAME® – Special features anddevelopment historyAn interview with system inventor Dr. Ing. Switbert Greiner

49 Architecture

I didn’t think that so much had tobe taken into consideration whenattaching a piece of material neatlyto a rectangular area. Were thereother things which you had to takeinto account when developing theproduct?Switbert Greiner: Yes, absolutely! Forexample, take the rounded form of theprofile, which together with the silver-colored eloxadized coating optically reduces the shadow-forming edges ofthe profile. Furthermore, great care wastaken to ensure the panels could be removed for maintenance purposes andthe textile areas could be opened indi-vidually – so as to be able to carry outrepairs on the lights behind. Anothervery important feature of the SEFARLIGHTFRAME® is the option of havinganother membrane made from fabric orfilm on the reverse side. This means youcan prevent the buildup of dust on thefront side of the membrane and becauseof the intentional diffusion effect of theback membrane, dirt and even dead insects can be rendered invisible. A sec-ond membrane layer makes the acousticproperties noticeably better as well.

Which properties and possibilities ofSEFAR LIGHTFRAME® are especiallyconvincing to architects when theyare at the planning stage?Switbert Greiner: The architect canplan the layout of the ceiling and wallelements largely independently since thepanels are generally rectangular. It helpswhen the architect can take account ofthe working width of the fabric, andtake off about 2 ¥ 4 cm for the welt.Frequently the panels measure about1.5 ¥ 3.0 m². But much longer andwider panels are also feasible. Beforeconstruction, an engineer with detailedknowledge of the system should be consulted in order to specify and fine-tune the particulars. More oftenthan not, the engineer is with the contract partner (manufacturer) anyway.We are also happy to take on the detailed technical planning in trickycases.

Where do you see potential for possible applications?Switbert Greiner: The range of appli-cations for SEFAR LIGHTFRAME® gener-ally consists of coverings for flat ceilingand wall surfaces. Polyhedron structuresare also conceivable and have alreadybeen created (see Sefar exhibition stand2007), and circular panels are viable too.If you want to avoid seams in fabric, thewidth of the elements is restricted toabout 1.5 to 3.0 meters. The length ofthe panels can be very large and thiscomes down to a question of handlingcapability. SEFAR LIGHTFRAME® displaysa special brilliance in combination withlight. The word “light” in the brandname stands for light in terms of its optical brightness, weight, and filigree.

What kind of feedback do you getfrom partners who work with andfit SEFAR LIGHTFRAME®?Switbert Greiner: We maintain closecontact with users and respond to design modification requests from thosein the field. Of course we have to trainthese people thoroughly and supportthem now and then with problemswhich arise. We listen carefully to anycriticism from users and carry out detailed improvements. For example,some fitters had difficulty using the spe-cial assembly tool. As a result, we madesome modifications to both the tension-ing tool and the feeding mechanism forthe connecting screws. Otherwise, wereceive very positive feedback from ourpartners and the fitters who work withand assemble SEFAR LIGHTFRAME®.

Yes, but then surely the frames willbend under the tensioning force ofthe membrane! How do you preventthat happening?Switbert Greiner: This can be pre-vented by connecting neighboring pan-els together to ensure the tensioningforce of the membrane is passed on, soto speak. Then the edge profile becomesa continuous carrier with correspond-ingly small span widths and no visiblebending deformation – despite beingextremely slender.

That is really exciting. But how issuch a connection achieved? In mostcases, they cannot be fitted from therear side – and I have never seen ascrew or anything similar on a SEFARLIGHTFRAME® ceiling.Switbert Greiner: For this we devel-oped a connecting element that workslike a screw and can be turned by meansof a cog-wheel mechanism from thefront or rear side using a special tool Iinvented myself. The connecting screwsare not visible in their finished state. Thespecial assembly tool and many othermanual aids were developed togetherby Dr. Gutmann and me. The tool accesses the gear wheel via an extremelynarrow visible seam between the pan-els.

How is the membrane actually se-cured to the edge profile?Switbert Greiner: The membrane isdrawn over the SEFAR LIGHTFRAME®profile with the help of a welt connec-tion. Care is taken to ensure the mem-brane is slightly shortened when fittedso that the desired pretensioning of themembrane areas can be set when securing the frames together.

Each year, millions of pilgrims flock tothe mosque inMedina al-Munawwarah.In recent years, the traditional time of pilgrimage has been in the cooler fall and winter months. This timeframe is changing gradually, however.According to the lunar calendar, thetime of pilgrimage is returning to the extremely hot summer months,makingasunshadeabsolutely essential.The answer: 250 giant umbrellas covered with Sefar PTFE fabric nowproviding pilgrims with plenty of shade.

250 sunshades for pilgrims

Architecture 50

MOSQUE MEDINA

A total of 143,000 m2

PTFE ensures plenty ofshade for the MedinaHaram Piazza.

51 Architecture

Architecture 52

High-tech functionsconcealed in anelegant design. If required, thesunshades retractautomatically.

53 Architecture

MOSQUE MEDINA

Architecture 54

As general contractor, the Saudi BinladinGroup contracted the architectonic planning of this project to SL-RaschGmbH in Leinfelden-Echterdingen (Germany). It was clear from the begin-ning that only PTFE fabric would be ableto meet the exceptional situational demands. Other materials would notprovide full protection from the aggres-sive UV radiation or satisfy the stringentstandards required by the customer. Inaddition to UV-stability, the material hadto have an extremely high tensilestrength owing to wind load, maximumflexibility, colorfastness, fire resistance,as well as effective shading and appro-priate light transmission.

Impressivedimensions. Whenopen, the sunumbrellas can beseen in all their gloryas they create anunbroken area ofshade.

55 Architecture

Extra tough PTFE fabricThe extra tough PTFE fabric developedby Sefar especially for this huge projectcould not remain pure white owing tothe intensity of the light since the strongtransmission would have blinded peoplebeneath the sunshade. For this reason,the customer chose a sand-colored fab-ric. In addition, oriental patterns madefrom blue PTFE-ribbons should be ap-plied to the underside of the umbrella.With careful adjustment of the weavingmachine, the consistent quality of thegiant fabric surface was also guaran-teed.

The outcome of this combination: byshading with PTFE fabric, the ambienttemperature is reduced by at least 8 °C.

143,000 m2 shadeThe final “go” for the project, however,was given only after the production offour actual-size prototypes. They weretested under real conditions in collabo-ration with the umbrella control systemmanufacturer, Liebherr from Ehingen inGermany. Since September 2010, a totalof 250 umbrellas, each one with a sur-face area of 25.5 ¥ 25.5 m (when open)and 15 meters high, have been installedin the area surrounding the mosque inMedina al-Munawwarah. These umbrel-

las work together to form a shaded areaof 143,000 m2 – greater than the floorarea of the mosque itself. When closed,each umbrella – including its workingparts – is encased in a narrow, elegantcolumn. The opening and closing procedure only takes three minutes.

MOSQUE MEDINA

ClientSaudi Arabian Ministry of FinanceGeneral ContractorSBG – Saudi Binladin GroupArchitect:SL-Rasch, GermanyUmbrella manufacturerLiebherr, GermanyManufacturingTaiyo Kogyo, JapanPTFE fabric producerSefar, Switzerland

A specialy extra tough PTFE fabric was developed bySefar for this project.

Architecture 56

MOSQUE MEDINA

57 Architecture

Applications madefrom blue PTFE-ribbons form orientalpatterns on theunderside of theumbrellas.

A shining example of a good concept

Architecture 58

59 Architecture

Architecture fabric as light wall,presentation surface, and room dividerAchema in Frankfurt is one of the lead-ing trade fairs and world forums for theprocess industry, and a trendsetting tech-nology summit for chemical engineering,environmental protection, and biotech-nology. Sefar AG is also an exhibitor atAchema – and naturally utilizes its ownarchitectural materials to generate interest among the fair’s specialist visi-tors. SEFAR® Architecture IA-80-CL is amaterial which more than meets themultiple requirements of these corporateappearances.

“Why search far and wide when thegood things are right here?” Thesewords from a German motto seem ap-propriate for Sefar AG during the plan-ning and implementation of their exhi-bition stand for Achema 2009, and

using their own innovative products topromote themselves. In conjunction witha stand concept, the architecture fabricSEFAR® Architecture IA-80-CL is usedtogether with “constructive PON,“ anode-rod system with magnetic connec-tors, where it clearly demonstrates itsmaterial properties and strengths.

Fabric and metalThe fabric is attached to the frame construction by means of hook ties.This allows the construction of walls,cubes, or columns. The three-dimen-sional construction elements are illumi-nated with free-hanging neon tubesfrom the inside out. A high light trans-mission of ≥ 80% guarantees maxi-mum luminance, ensuring the harmo-nious appearance of light walls andcolumns. Together with “constructivePON“ in aluminum, the fabric performsan emotional interplay between the

impressions of “warmth” and “tech-nology.”

Presentation surface and sound absorberOn account of its nature and quality,the textile fabric is suitable for preprint-ing with logos or messages. The graphicscan be added by means of digital orscreen printing, and thanks to its back-lighting this appears homogenous. Lastbut not least, SEFAR® Architecture IA-80-CL ensures a perceivable and audible dampening of the constantbackground noise associated with a busytrade fair. The fabric absorbs unwantedreverberation, providing a comfortableplace in which to talk to on-site Sefarrepresentatives. In this way, Sefar scoreshighly with discerning visitors who appreciate an especially striking – butnonetheless high-quality – display.

ACHEMA FRANKFURT

Exhibition Stand Sefar AG

Achema 2009, Frankfurt, Germany SystemBurkhardt Leitner, Stuttgart, Germany www.burkhardtleitner.de DesignBuob & Schiess GmbH, St.Gallen,Switzerland, www.buobundschiess.chManufacturing/ImplementationRetailpartners AG, Wetzikon, Switzerland www.retailpartners.ch FabricSEFAR® Architecture IA-80-CL

SEFAR® Architecture IA-80-CL

Fabric materialPVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), calendared,open-poreFabric width (cm) 146, 270, 340 Highest tensile strength warp/weft(N/5 cm)1,800/1,000 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Highest tensile elongation strengthwarp/weft (%)35/27 as per EN ISO 13934-1 Fire resistanceB1 as per DIN 4102; B-s1, d0 as per DINEN 13501-1 Light transmission (%)> 80 as per ASTM D 1003 Reflectance (%) 19Absorption (%) 1

Architecture 60

With SEFAR® Architecture VISIONtechnical precision fabrics, it is nowpossible to make architectonicallyand creatively unique façades. Alook behind the scenes reveals thesteps required to transform ex-tremely delicate filament yarn (athread) into a metal-coated fabriccombined with glass and plastic.

Yarn, also known as thread The starting point for every fabricwhether it is a conventional material ortechnical precision fabric is the yarn –generally known as “thread.” For tech-nical applications, (synthetic) filamentyarn is used as this is superior in termsof fineness, evenness and strength to(natural) staple filaments. To produce filament yarn or monofilament, the ther-moplastic synthetic material is melted in

an extruder, homogenized, and in a viscous state forced through a nozzleunder high pressure and then drawnout. This extrusion spinning proceduremakes it possible to create exceptionallyfine filaments with a length of severalthousand kilometers.

Monofilament yarns have a minimumdiameter of 20 µm while the single filament of a multifilament yarn can befiner than 1 µm. Sefar subsidiary Mono-suisse AG has many years of extensiveexperience in the production of monofil-aments from a wide range of polymers.The most recent product, a monofila-ment made using PVDF, is especially wellsuited for creating architecture fabricsfor internal and external applications.The choice of yarn depends on the nature of the application for which it is

to be used. SEFAR® Architecture VISIONuses black, flame-retardant monofila-ment with a diameter of 140 or 260 micrometers (1 µm = 1/1000 mm). Bycomparison, a human hair measuresabout 60 micrometers in diameter.

Warp and weft form the fabricOn the weaving machine the yarn turnsinto fabric, which by definition is “a regular textile material.” A fabric is always made from yarns which arealigned in different ways; the fiberswhich follow the lengthwise directionof the material are the “warp” andthose in the transverse direction are the“weft” (or filling yarns). The way thewarp and weft are combined is knownas the “weave.” All the warp yarns aremanually pulled into the heddles andhealds of the weaving machine. Here it

From threads to SEFAR®Architecture VISIONPrecision in production, finishing, and manufacturing.

VISION FABRICS

61 Architecture

is important to ensure there are no errorssince crossed fibers inevitably lead touneven results. For SEFAR® ArchitectureVISION, between 1,000 and 3,000 warpyarns are manually drawn for each meterof fabric width.

“Open area“ determines trans-parencyDuring the weaving process, the healdscontaining the warp yarn are raised andlowered to enable the weft or filler yarnto pass through the “shed” which hasbeen created. The width of the meshformed determines the “open area“ –for SEFAR® Architecture VISION Fabricsbetween 25% and 70% – to ensuretransparency (e.g. for use in façade ele-ments). After weaving, further finishingprocedures are necessary: cleaning, dyeing, heat treatment, and influencing

its final outer surface properties – in thecase of SEFAR® Architecture Vision thismight mean a metal coating for bothsides of the fabric. In addition, SEFAR®Architecture VISION can be digitallyprinted or calendared for special reflec-tion effects (polishing and compressing).

Fabric in laminated or insulatingglass SEFAR® Architecture VISION is laminatedin glass when used in façade elements,whereas the fabric is tensioned betweentwo panes and set into a frame whenused in conjunction with insulating glass.In both cases if desired, the fabric canbe presented as a single layer, twomoiré-looking layers, or crumpled byhand to create the ultimate unique effect.

By combining open surfaces, colors, dif-ferent finishes, or free design by digitalprinting, the architectonic possibilitiesare virtually endless.

Vision fabric

film film

glass

glass

SEFAR® Architecture VISION Fabric

Fabric (coating) Fabric (reverse side)

Bischoff Glastechnik AGBGTBretten (Germany)

BGT Bischoff Glastechnik AG has been apartner of Sefar AG for a number of years.Founded in 1936, BGT is today one of theleading European corporations for flatglassprocessing and finishing.

250 staff are employed at their premises inBretten where standard and high-techglass is manufactured for industry andproject constructions in a production areacovering 50,000 m2.

BI-Vision® special glass with laminated,coated technical fabric by Sefar alreadycharacterizes to a high degree thearchitectonic appearance of manybuildings worldwide.

The competence of both organizationscoupled with extensive know-how formsthe basis of innovative glass solutions,which continue to impress architects andplanners owing to their unique advantagesfor façade construction.

For more information about BGT go to:www.bgt-bretten.de

SEFAR® Architecture VISIONcompetence partner

Architecture 62

Façade design in three dimensions.The simultaneous interplay of light and shadow both enlivens and cools.

When constructing the new head offices of one of theworld’s largest fashion houses, architect Rafael de La-Hozdecided to use timeless design concepts rather that some-thing currently in trend. The curtain-like glass frontage hasa harsh structure. Alternating between transparent glassand glass finished with SEFAR® Architecture VISION Fabriclends a third dimension to the building façade. The fabrictype AL 260/50 “shines” with its special reflective proper-ties, enlivening the structure from outside while maintaininga comfortable climate inside.

63 Architecture

VISION SPAIN

Architecture 64

65 Architecture

VISION SPAIN

The first commercial application in Europe of the extraordinary SEFAR®Architecture VISION Fabric in connectionwith laminated glass has been realizedin the Spanish capital, Madrid. ArchitectRafael de La-Hoz decided to employ this

special, technical fabric for the designof the new headquarters because it fulfills several architectonic functions.Explaining his concept, he says: “Myidea was to give the project a neutral,abstract façade which brings to life thechanges in light and shade in the courseof the day and of the seasons.”

Optimum combinationIt is a fact that in this project SEFAR® Architecture VISION Fabric displays prod-uct-technical strengths in practicallyevery respect. The fabric type AL 260/50is a project-specific advancement of theAL 260/55, whose aluminum-coated surface is calendared to further enhanceits reflective qualities. This fabric is usedin conjunction with Sentry Glass® andlaminated to safety glass in a 3,440 ¥1,950 mm format. “The interplay between shade and reflection is subjectto constant change, with the dark rectangles of the internal covering mix-ing with reflections,” says architect La-Hoz concerning the façade designwhich is in the form of a moving, three-dimensional chessboard.

Creative and practical added valueBy coating with metal and calendaringthe SEFAR® Architecture VISION Fabric,the enhanced reflective properties reduce the amount of warmth receivedfrom the sun, leading in turn to a posi-tive and sustainable effect on energybalance. At the same time, the trans-parent fabric allows for an almost unre-stricted view of the streets of Madrid.In SEFAR® Architecture VISION AL260/50, this prominent project hasfound the optimum refinement and si-multaneously had the properties of thearchitectural material glass further im-proved. Great advantages have beenachieved through creative and physicalconstruction characteristics which areclearly disassociated from contemporarytrends.

Light and shade,reflection, andabsorption. The façadecreates a fascinatingthird dimension,resulting in anenergized city feature.

Architecture 66

Preview

David Chipperfield Architectsproudly presents – SEFAR®Architecture VISION at the London Design Festival

The prestigious London Design Festivaltook place for the ninth time in 2011.Architects, designers, and artists exhibittemporary installations.

SEFAR® Architecture VISION was theformative component of the temporaryinstallation “Two Lines,“ which was ex-hibited at Southbank Centre Square onthe south side of the River Thames.

BC Place in Vancouver –a stadium roof of truly Olympianproportions

BC Place Stadium was the first stadiumin Canada with inflatable roofing. Following some serious damage, a rad-ical renovation was carried out. SEFAR®Architecture TENARA® Fabric is now in-corporated into the 7,500 m2 retractablestadium roof – the largest of its kind inthe world. The roof construction consistsof 18 roof elements, each one approx.200 meters long and attached to 47-meter-high masts. The opening and clos-ing procedure takes only 20 minutes.

In the next “Sefar Architecture“ we will report on …

www.formfinder.at is an excellentsupport tool for planners andimplementers

Step by step from draft to the imple-mentation of sophisticated shapes. Assimple as paper and pencil – the designsoftware of www.formfinder.at is an excellent support tool for planners andimplementers.

Sefar AGArchitectureHinterbissaustrasse 129410 HeidenSwitzerland

Office North America Sefar AG, North America Office Peter J. Katcha 446 2nd Street North Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 USA

Office Asia Chetan Doshi Sefar AG, Rep. Office 104 /105 Gayatri Complex Mittal Ind. Estate Compound Andheri Kurla Road, Andheri (E) Mumbai 400 059India

www.sefar.comwww.tenarafabrics.com

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